Note Taking Methods

Whether you are listening to a lecture or reading an article needed for an assignment, there are several different methods people recommend for taking notes. Some specific methods used in our schools are listed below. Links will take you to pages where this information is explained in detail:

Cornell Notes

• This method helps organize and condense notes:
  • Video explanation
  • Organization 
  • ​Example
  • Template

T-chart

• Similar to Cornell, and used sometimes in English/Socials classes:
  • Example 
  • Template

Sketchnote

• A method which encourages doodling:
  • Tips for how to start
  • Video example​

Outlining

• There are many different ways to outline. However, notes are typically taken before an outline is created:
  • Basic format 
  • “How and Why to Create a Useful Outline” (Purdue Owl)

For an overview on different methods, check out the following video and articles:

• How to Take Better Notes: The Six Best Note-Taking Systems (video)
• How to Take Study Notes: 5 Effective Note Taking Methods (article)
• What’s the best, most effective way to take notes? (article)